Storage container securing system

Abstract

A storage container securing system, in one embodiment, may include a base for receiving at least a portion of a storage container, such as a cooler, and a shelf adjustably positioned within the base to adjust the location of the storage container. In another embodiment, a storage container securing system is described having slidable inserts configured to matingly engage a slot in a storage container. In another embodiment, a storage container securing system is described having a receiving slot configured to receive a protrusion of a storage container.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A storage container securing system, comprising:
 first and second slidable inserts each having upper and lower surfaces with a protrusion extending from the upper surfaces; 
 the first and second slidable inserts being configured to be removably secured to a base and spaced apart a distance corresponding to a length of a storage container to be secured between the protrusions of the first and second slidable inserts; 
 first and second coupling members secured to the an outer surface of the protrusions of respective ones of the first and second slidable inserts, wherein each coupling member comprises a latch on a first end of the coupling member and a locking tab on an opposite, second end of the coupling member, the locking tab having a bend on an end thereof configured to hook onto a slot of the storage container to be secured; and 
 wherein, when the first and second slidable inserts are secured to the base, the latches of the first and second coupling members may be utilized to selectively lock the storage container to the base. 
 
     
     
       2. The storage container securing system of  claim 1 , wherein the latch includes a locking opening therein for receipt of a locking device therethrough. 
     
     
       3. The storage container securing system of  claim 1 , wherein the base forms part of an automobile body. 
     
     
       4. The storage container securing system of  claim 1 , wherein the locking tab of the coupling member is a flat piece of metal having bends therein configured to allow a lid of the storage container to fully close when the locking tab is hooked onto the slot thereof. 
     
     
       5. The storage container securing system of  claim 1 , wherein the coupling member has a rectangular cross section.